Maine cat that ended up in Florida is headed home

News

Photo: clipart.com

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) A Maine family that long ago gave up on a lost family cat is being reunited — more than six years and 1,500 miles later.

Denise Cilley, of Chesterville, said she was shocked to get a voicemail last week announcing her cat, Ashes, had been located in Florida.

Ashes went missing in 2015 during a 10th birthday celebration for her daughter.

“They looked for her for quite a while, and they sadly concluded she probably had become prey for a predator,” said Janet Williams, a family friend in Florida who took temporary custody of the cat, told WABI-TV.

A veterinarian’s office determined the kitty’s identity, thanks to a microchip that had been implanted.

How she got to Florida remains a mystery.

“I have interrogated her quite strictly and she is not talking,” said Williams.

Ashes was being returned to Maine on Wednesday, accompanied by one of Janet Williams’ friends.

Cilley said she planned to be on hand to collect her pet at Portland International Jetport.

Latest Headlines

5 hours ago in Local

Trump Shuts Down Offshore Wind in New England; Nova Scotia Eyes Opportunity

The administration’s freeze on U.S. ocean wind projects could set clean energy back a decade. Nova Scotia’s massive Wind West project hopes to fill the gap and even sell power to the U.S.

5 hours ago in Local

Federal Policy Could Push Hundreds of Mainers Out of Long-Term Housing

HUD plans to cut funding for permanent supportive housing and shift to transitional programs, leaving vulnerable Mainers at risk of homelessness. Advocates warn shelters could be overwhelmed.

6 hours ago in Local

Maine Announces $550K in Grants to Boost Coastal Resilience

The state just announced $550,000 in grants to help communities prepare for future storms and flooding. Towns and regional groups can apply for funding to strengthen infrastructure and plan for climate risks. Applications are due Jan. 5.

6 hours ago in Local

Portland Unveils Maine’s First Electric Boat Charger

Portland just unveiled the state’s first electric boat charger at Wright’s Wharf. The move is part of a push to cut emissions and noise in the marine industry.

6 hours ago in Local

Overdose Deaths Continue to Decline in Maine for Third Year

Overdose deaths have dropped for the third year in a row! Fatal overdoses are down 23% compared to last year, and officials credit naloxone distribution and expanded treatment options. If the trend continues, Maine could see the fewest overdose deaths in six years.